At Franklin, we work with offices every day. One question continues to surface: how can we support employees in a way that feels intentional, not just operational?
The answer isn’t limited to ergonomic chairs or wellness rooms. It begins with something more fundamental—what’s underfoot.
Wellness doesn’t start with a benefits package; it starts with space. Flooring is a foundational design element that influences how people feel, function, and engage with their environment.
The Overlooked Opportunity Beneath Our Feet
Many workplaces today feature open layouts and modern finishes. But visual appeal alone doesn’t drive well-being. True wellness requires a deeper look at how physical materials contribute to comfort, sound control, and air quality.
Thoughtfully selected flooring can support the physical, mental, and environmental health of every employee—turning design into a strategic wellness investment.
Flooring for Physical and Acoustic Comfort
Prolonged standing or walking can cause fatigue and discomfort. Cushioned vinyl, rubber surfaces, and carpet with premium backing help:
- Reduce strain on joints and muscles
- Increase comfort and minimize fatigue
- Support overall productivity and reduce injuries
Flooring also plays a crucial role in acoustics. In open or shared spaces, sound-absorbing flooring helps:
- Dampen distracting noise
- Improve concentration and collaboration
- Create a quieter, calmer atmosphere
Design That Feels as Good as It Looks
A workplace should engage the senses. Biophilic design—bringing nature into interior spaces—can reduce stress and enhance mood.
Flooring inspired by natural textures and tones can:
- Foster cognitive and emotional well-being
- Create soothing, restorative environments
- Enhance aesthetics while supporting function
Flexible, modular flooring layouts also help:
- Define zones and circulation areas
- Encourage movement and inclusivity
- Support evolving team needs with easy reconfiguration
Healthier Materials for a Healthier Office
Indoor air quality in the workplace has become a hot topic since COVID entered our lives. For the work environment, this has made organizations and employees more mindful of the importance of good indoor air quality for our health and well-being.
Unlike hard flooring, carpet actively traps dirt, fine dust, and allergens, preventing it from circulating in a space. While regular maintenance is required to remove dust and dirt, carpet inherently has a major impact on indoor air quality. Even before the point of entering the workplace, well-designed entry-flooring systems at a building’s front door will significantly reduce any dirt, dust, and toxin particulates that can be tracked in from employee’s footwear and clothing.
By guiding clients toward solutions that:
- Meet health and sustainability standards
- Improve air quality and reduce toxins
- Begin cleanliness at the entryway
Franklin helps create environments that support well-being from the first step in the workspace.
Let’s Talk Wellness In Your Organization
At Franklin, we believe flooring should work as hard as your people do. It should enhance comfort, support focus, and promote health.
Let’s work together to design spaces that reflect care and intention—starting from the ground up.
Sources:
https://europeblog.milliken.com/5-ways-in-which-flooring-can-improve-workplace-well-being
https://www.patcraft.com/Blog/2021/The-Power-of-Biophilic-Design?sort=date+desc
https://www.mohawkgroup.eu/en/articles/rudiments
https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/indoor-air-quality
https://cbe.berkeley.edu/research/workplace-acoustics/
https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/reports/the-economics-of-biophilia/
https://www.upmc.com/media/news/091617-wearable-sensor-fatigue